7 Interesting Facts about Hong Kong

ASEAN members and British nationals do not require a visa to enter Hong Kong. If you’re planning to work, study, establish or join in any business, or take up residence in Hong Kong, it’s compulsory to carry a valid visa or entry permit.  

You’re also required to have return tickets and adequate funds to cover the duration of your stay. If you want to stay longer than the duration of your visa-free travel period (7–180 days, depending on nationality), you must apply for a visa or entry permit before travelling to Hong Kong. 

Hong Kong is home to over 350 banking institutions, with 70 of the world’s largest banks operating in this urban region. Just about every major bank in the world can be found on Hong Kong Island, so there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find your bank of choice throughout your holiday.

You can exchange your money to HK$ at any bank, currency exchange shop, and hotel counter in Hong Kong. Note that you’re required to pay a small service charge. Major credit cards, such as American Express, Visa, and MasterCard are accepted by all Hong Kong hotels, shopping malls, and major restaurants.

The standard electrical voltage in HK is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Most electric sockets in Hong Kong take a 3-pronged plug, which is commonly used in the UK. Adaptors are available in most convenience stores in Hong Kong. 

Hong Kong was one of the first major cities of the world to have a fully digitised telephone network. Information technology (IT) is applied extensively in all sectors of business. Most hotels have fast internet access, and you can enjoy free Wi-Fi at Hong Kong’s many coffee shops and shopping malls.

Getting around in Hong Kong is rather convenient thanks to its efficient public transport options, which include trams, buses, trains, and ferries. Save even more time by getting an Octopus Card to pay for your tickets and even goods at convenience stores, vending machines, and supermarkets in Hong Kong.

Trams are a relaxing way to traverse the city, while ferries offer scenic views of the South China Sea. Buses are cheaper alternatives to the trains, but the city centre often experiences traffic jams during rush hour. Rush hour in Hong Kong results in very packed trains and buses, so avoid travelling in the morning (7am to 9am) and evening (5pm to 7pm) on weekdays. 

The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) service of Hong Kong Island is comprehensive, efficient and fast, as is that of Kowloon peninsula's Kowloon-Canton Railway (KCR). The trains provide excellent service to most areas in Hong Kong.

Water in Hong Kong undergoes treatment and sterilisation, so you can drink it straight from the tap. Note that pipes in many buildings in Hong Kong are old-fashioned, so the quality of water passing through them may deteriorate. We highly recommend buying bottled water or boiling tap water before drinking it.